The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is sponsoring a national children’s art contest on the theme of “Things I Can Do To Keep Safe and Be Healthy.” They explain: The contest is open to children in two groups, grades 3-5 and 6-8. The winner in each group and their parents/guardians will be invited to attend […]
The always-useful Lifehacker has had a number of posts about kids and home lately. Here’s a roundup: How to set a homework schedule. Also useful for us bloggers and writers. Kids Freeware Bonanza. From games to education. Copy TV shows to your iPod. Perhaps good for car trips, waiting at the doctor’s office, and other
Even though it’s the beginning of March, the weather is still cold here in the northeast, and we spend a lot of time on indoor activities. Our arts-and-crafts supplies are getting a workout. Here’s my list of ten essential items: Construction paper Pad of newsprint or other cheap drawing paper Crayons Washable markers Watercolor paints
For an easy, non-toxic kids’ paint, try mixing a package of Kool-Aid with half the recommended amount of water. It paints like watercolor and smells nice, too. There are more complex recipes online for a thicker Kool-Aid paint, involving flour and oil, good for finger painting or potato stamping. I like the water-only version, however,
Flashlights are natural kids’ toys. I’ve never known a child not to be fascinated with the power of shining a spot on the wall. You can buy any number of character-branded ones, but I’ve found that plain but colorful 6″ AA plastic lights are just as attractive to kids. Here are a few activity ideas:
All parents and caregivers should have a few quick and easy gimmicks up their sleeves to entertain children at a moment’s notice. Here’s a silly paper trick to balance out all the political posts I’ve been doing lately: 1. Fold an index card or similar piece of paper in half lengthwise. 2. Cut through both
The Family Pride Coalition is once again organizing a contingent of LGBTQ families to participate in the White House Egg Roll. They explain: With your help, on April 9th, hundreds of LGBTQ-parented families will fill the White House Lawn, rolling easter eggs side by side with our fellow citizens. At Family Pride, we believe that
From Ru at Hedda Dabbler comes the idea of a watering can for kids. She notes, “It is so versatile – a purse, a planter, a container of any sort really – and best of all, it is intended to do that most exciting of all things – pour water!” Ah, yes, the perpetual fascination
The New York Times today has a fun article (registration required) on parents who are trying to share a sense of culinary adventure with their kids, leading to a growing number of resources for them. More and more restaurants, including higher-end gourmet and ethnic ones, have children’s menus. Culinary centers are offering kids’ classes. Home
